$BTC

Bitcoin (BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by an anonymous creator known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It was designed as a decentralized digital currency that allows peer-to-peer transactions without the need for a central authority like a bank or government. Bitcoin operates on a blockchain—a public, immutable ledger that records all transactions.

BTC’s main innovation is its proof-of-work consensus mechanism, where miners compete to solve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and secure the network. In return, they are rewarded with newly minted BTC. This process is energy-intensive but has proven highly secure.

Bitcoin is often referred to as "digital gold" due to its capped supply of 21 million coins, which makes it deflationary and attractive as a store of value. It has become a popular hedge against inflation and currency devaluation in times of economic uncertainty.

Despite criticisms regarding energy use and transaction speed, Bitcoin remains the dominant cryptocurrency by market capitalization. It has sparked a global movement toward decentralized finance and inspired the creation of thousands of other digital assets. As both a technological breakthrough and financial revolution, BTC continues to play a central role in shaping the future of money.